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Borne Disease With No Warning Rash Is Spreading Across the U.S.
Newsweek • • health
Key Points:
- Tick-borne illnesses in the U.S. are increasing due to climate change, expanding tick habitats, and improved diagnostics, with some diseases posing risks comparable to Lyme disease.
- Orthnairoviruses, a family of tick-borne viruses including the dangerous Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus, can evade the human immune system by removing immune signaling molecules, allowing infections to go undetected.
- A newly identified nairovirus enzyme from the Pacific Coast tick shows strong immune evasion capabilities, raising concerns about potential human exposure on the West Coast, though further research is needed.
- Anaplasmosis, spread by the blacklegged deer tick, is expanding geographically and is difficult to detect without blood tests since it lacks the characteristic Lyme disease rash.
- To prevent tick-borne diseases, experts advise wearing protective clothing, using EPA-approved repellents, promptly showering after outdoor activities, thoroughly checking for ticks, and seeking medical advice if symptoms develop.
